Inspired leadership in challenging times: An interview with Mary Sue Coleman

Mary Sue Coleman talks about the challenges of becoming the president of Michigan at a critical moment for the University. She details the planning she undertook as she prepared to step in front of the cameras to talk about the U.S. Supreme Court cases. The reader learns about Coleman's leadership style and the methods she uses to engage with people who have views different from her own. Coleman discusses the role of public universities as well as the importance of the University of Michigan defending its admission policies in the affirmative action cases. President Coleman also details the challenges one faces in assuming ownership in a new leadership position.